Black Turnstones are experts at camouflage. The best way to spot them is when they are flying because that shows some of their white feathers. When they walk around on rocks, they are very difficult to see with the dark feathers on top showing.
enlarge Can you find a Black Turnstone. Use the enlarge to help you.
enlarge Here’s the same photo with ‘dehaze’ editing applied. Try again if you didn’t first succeed.
Now that you know how hard it is to spot it, here are some closer shots.
Seeing the Turnstone in silhouette helps.
enlarge Mussels are a main food source. Click on ‘enlarge’ to help see it.
You should be getting better at finding the Turnstone by now.
It’s easier to see them when they fly. Watching them land gives you a better idea of where to look on the rocks.
Much easier to see in this photo.
Now to see some up close.
They know how to open a mussel quickly.
Here is a Turnstone squishing down a wet mussel and having some water exit its beak.
The back view is important when getting to know a bird.
No food here. Getting ready to find some.
Here’s the meal ticket!
Another shot of a flying Turnstone. That next rock looks like a full banquet.
By this time, the Turnstone pops right out for you. Hope you get to see one in real life.
Turnstones enjoy rocks being washed by the salt water, feeding barnacles and other shelled creatures.
Walking through a recent wave that washed over the rock. They time it just right.
With wings extended, the Turnstone is so visible.
Facts about the Black Turnstone from All About Birds on the Internet for those that want to know more.
If anyone has Black Turnstone photos or tales, I’d love to hear about them.
The Bucket gallery is now open for your photo or comment additions. Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Calendar:
December 2: clickadee
December 9: appy
December 16: jeff
December 23: cal
December 30:
Anyone want to join us for one of the last two Fridays in December?
